The Chairman, Senate Committee on the Navy, Distinguished Senator Olugbenga Daniel, on Monday, 20 October 2025, led members of the Committee on a courtesy visit to the Headquarters Eastern Naval Command (ENC) in Calabar, as part of their oversight and on-the-spot assessment of naval bases, ships, and establishments within the area.
The delegation was warmly received by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Kennedy Chukwuemeka Ezete, alongside the Fleet Commander, Eastern Fleet, and Principal Staff Officers of the Command. During the visit, the Committee was briefed on the Command’s operational activities, achievements, and ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime security in Nigeria’s eastern waters.
In his remarks, Senator Daniel commended the Command for its outstanding performance in protecting the nation’s maritime domain. He particularly lauded the Navy’s successes in rescuing kidnapped victims and conducting effective anti-crime operations, noting that Nigerians deeply appreciate the Service’s dedication to national security.
The Senator underscored the need to enhance operational capabilities through the increased deployment of drones and helicopters, while also identifying key challenges such as inadequate accommodation, collapsed jetties, and fuel shortages. He further recommended the installation of CCTV systems for improved monitoring and fuel management and urged the Command to submit a prioritized list of its needs for legislative consideration and possible funding.
Also speaking, Senator Kelvin Chukwu commended the Command’s commitment to duty and called for stronger inter-agency collaboration to consolidate the gains achieved in maritime security operations.
In his response, Rear Admiral Ezete expressed appreciation for the Committee’s visit and continued support. He disclosed that CCTV systems have already been installed onboard naval ships, complemented by strict internal control measures to prevent theft and misuse. The FOC also reaffirmed that the acquisition and deployment of drones and helicopters remain key operational priorities for the Eastern Naval Command in its quest to enhance surveillance and response capacity.
 in Calabar, as part of their oversight and on-the-spot assessment of naval bases, ships, and establishments within the area.){kind=link}